How to Tell if Your Pest Control is Working

Pest control can be an essential aspect of any household or business, ensuring that pests such as rodents, insects, and termites are prevented from causing untold damage. However, one can tell if the pest control measures taken are working, from the effectiveness of chemical treatments to rodent proofing, among other methods. In this article, we will delve deeper into how to tell if your pest control is working using various techniques.

Firstly, the most obvious indicators that your pest control is effective are the reduction in pest sightings and activity. For example, if you had a serious roach infestation, and after the pest control treatment, you notice fewer roaches within your property, it is a clear sign that your pest control measures are effective. You might also notice that pest-related damage or marks such as bite marks on materials, frayed wires, or droppings start decreasing over time.

Secondly, a reliable pest control company such as Target Pest Control and others, should be able to inform you of the different methods they will use to get rid of the pest problem in your property, including the chemicals and equipment used. After a good pest control treatment, you should also ask your pest control technician about the methods they used to ensure that the treatment was successful.

Thirdly, another essential aspect of pest control success is timely follow-up treatments. Many pests, especially insects, have lifecycle patterns that require proper timing of chemical and non-chemical treatments to prevent re-infestation. Your pest control company should, therefore, have a pest control plan in place that outlines the right times to come back for follow-up treatments.

Fourthly, ensure that your pest control company is entirely transparent about its prices, given that many fraudulent companies have taken advantage of the ambiguous nature of the pest control business. Ensure that you are not overcharged for pest control measures, and that the prices reflect the quality of the pest control measures taken.

Finally, safety measures are a critical aspect of pest control measures. You should never notice any negative effects of pesticides, such as bad odors or physical reactions from family members or employees, as a result of the pest control measures taken. Always ensure that your pest control is safe and that all safety measures are followed.

In conclusion, determining whether your pest control is working is subjective to some extent, with the best indicators being reduced pest sightings and damage, clear communication from the pest control professionals, follow-up treatments, transparent pricing, and safety measures. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your pest control measures are effective in keeping your property pest-free.

How to Get Rid of Raccoons in Your Yard

Raccoons are cute, but they can be a nuisance in your yard. They are known for digging up gardens, rummaging through trash, and causing general mayhem. Not to mention they can carry diseases like rabies. If you're tired of dealing with raccoons in your yard, you'll want to read on for tips and tricks on how to keep them away.

Don't Give Them a Reason to Stick Around

The best way to deter raccoons from your yard is to eliminate any food or water sources they might be attracted to. Make sure your garbage cans are properly secured with tight-fitting lids. Also, don't leave any pet food or water bowls outside overnight. Additionally, if you have fruit trees, pick up any fallen fruit as soon as possible. By removing these food and water sources, raccoons will be less likely to stick around.

Use Repellents

There are a variety of raccoon repellents available on the market, including natural options like garlic, cayenne pepper, and predator urine. There are also electric repellents that emit high-pitched frequencies that raccoons can't stand. Additionally, motion-activated sprinklers can also be effective in scaring off raccoons. Be cautious when using repellents and make sure they're safe for pets and children.

Install Fencing

If you're dealing with persistent raccoons, installing a fence may be one of your best options. Make sure to choose a fence that's at least six feet tall and buried several inches into the ground to prevent raccoons from digging underneath. Also, consider using non-climbable mesh or smooth material to prevent them from climbing over. However, keep in mind that raccoons are capable climbers, so make sure there are no nearby trees or other structures they can use to scale the fence.

Trapping

If all else fails, trapping may be your last resort. However, it's important to remember that trapping and relocating raccoons may not be legal in your area. Check with your local wildlife control agency to make sure you're following the proper procedures. If trapping is legal, use a humane trap and release the raccoon far away from your property. Some online stores, like North American Trapper, carry dog resistant raccoon traps, so you never have to worry about your pet! 

Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with raccoons in your yard is to prevent them from coming in the first place. Keep your property tidy and eliminate any food or water sources. Use repellents and install fencing if necessary. By following these tips, you can reduce the likelihood of raccoons being attracted to your yard.

Raccoons can be a bothersome presence in your yard, but there are plenty of ways to keep them away. By reducing their access to food and water sources, using repellents, installing fencing, and potentially trapping, you can ensure that raccoons don't cause any more trouble. Remember, prevention is key, so make sure to keep your yard tidy and eliminate any possible attractions for raccoons.

What to Do if Your Discover Termites in Your House

Termites are one of the most destructive pests that may invade your house, causing significant damage to your property. Unfortunately, termites are silent destroyers that can go unnoticed for some time, and by the time they are discovered, the damage may be extensive. If you spot small piles of sawdust or mud tubes around your house, it may be an indication of termites. If you suspect that your house has termites, it's crucial to take action immediately. This blog post will explore what you need to do if you discover termites in your house.

Call a Professional Termites Expert

The first step in dealing with a termite infestation is to call in a professional termite expert to help with necessary termite treatment. Termite experts have the skills and expertise to identify the type of termites in your house and determine the extent of the damage. A termite expert will also come up with the most effective treatment plan tailored to your situation. Treatment for termites may involve the use of chemicals, baits, and other termite control measures.

Control Moisture in Your Home

Termites are attracted to moisture, and if there's excess moisture in your home, you're likely to attract these destructive pests. Therefore, it's essential to control moisture in your home by reducing standing water, repairing pipes, and fixing leakages. Also, ensure that there's good ventilation in crawl spaces, attics, and basements.

Remove Food Sources

Termites feed on cellulose found in wood, paper, and other natural materials. Therefore, it's essential to remove any source of food such as old firewood, paper, and cardboard boxes around your home. In addition, you should ensure that there is no wood-to-soil contact around your home as this can attract termites.

Repair Any Structural Damage

Termites can cause severe structural damage to your home, including walls, ceilings, and roofs. Therefore, if you discover termite damage, it's crucial to repair any structural damage as soon as possible. Failure to repair structural damage can lead to additional damage and potentially dangerous safety hazards.

Monitor Your Home Regularly

Termites can invade your home at any time, and it's, therefore, crucial to monitor your home regularly. Regular inspection by a professional termite expert can identify any potential termite problems early enough before they become a significant issue. You can also perform your inspections by looking for mud tubes, termite wings, and wood damage.

Termites can cause significant damage to your home and property, and it's therefore crucial to take action as soon as you discover them. As seen in this blog post, the first step is to call in a professional termite expert to identify the type of termites and come up with an effective treatment plan. Additionally, you should control moisture in your home, remove any food sources, repair any structural damage, and monitor your home regularly. By taking these steps, you can prevent further damage to your home caused by termites. Taking swift action can save you significant time, money, and stress in the long run.

How to Keep Your Home Free From Unwanted Invaders

As a homeowner, one of your top priorities is keeping your home safe and comfortable. One of the biggest threats to your home's safety and comfort is pests. Pests can include insects like ants and cockroaches, rodents like mice and rats, and even larger animals like raccoons and possums. These unwanted invaders can cause damage to your home and property, spread diseases, and generally make your life miserable. The good news is that with some basic preventative measures, you can keep your home free from pests.

Keep Your Home Clean

The first step in keeping your home free from unwanted invaders is to keep it clean. Pests are attracted to food, water, and shelter, and your home provides all of these things. By keeping your home clean, you'll remove the things that attract pests and make it less likely that they'll take up residence in your home. This means cleaning up spills and crumbs immediately, putting food away in sealed containers, taking out the trash regularly, and keeping your kitchen and bathrooms clean.

Seal Up Cracks and Holes

Pests can enter your home through even the tiniest of spaces. This is why it's important to seal up any cracks or holes in your home's exterior. Look for gaps around doors and windows, holes in your walls, and cracks in your foundation. Use caulk or foam insulation to seal up these openings and prevent pests from getting in. This will also help to make your home more energy-efficient, as it will prevent drafts from entering.

Use Pest Control Products

If you find pests in your home, it's important to deal with them quickly before they can breed and establish a larger population. There are many pest control products available on the market, from sprays and baits to traps and ultrasonic devices. Choose the product that best suits your needs and follow the instructions carefully. Be sure to keep these products out of reach of children and pets, and always wear gloves and a mask when using them.

Call in the Professionals

If your pest problem is too big to handle alone, it may be time to call in the professionals. Home pest control companies have the expertise and equipment to deal with even the most challenging infestations. They can also provide ongoing preventative services to ensure your home remains pest-free. When choosing a pest control company, look for one that has a good reputation, and that uses environmentally-friendly products.

Stay Vigilant

Finally, it's important to stay vigilant when it comes to pests. Even if you've taken steps to prevent them from entering your home, pests can still find a way in. Watch for signs of pest activity, such as droppings, holes in food packaging, or strange noises in your walls. If you do spot pests in your home, deal with them quickly before they can establish a larger population. By staying vigilant and taking quick action, you can keep your home free from unwanted invaders.

Pests can be a significant nuisance for homeowners, but by following these tips, you can keep your home free from unwanted invaders. Remember to keep your home clean, seal up any cracks or holes, use pest control products when needed, call in the professionals if necessary, and stay vigilant. By taking a proactive approach to pest control, you can ensure that your home remains safe and comfortable for you and your family.